Tuesday, March 19, 2013

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news.casinolife

BALLY TECHNOLOGIES’ PRODUCTS WIN TWO OF THE FOUR HIGHEST HONORS IN ‘TOP 20 MOST INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS AWARDS’; ATTENDEES OF GAMING TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE CHOOSE BALLY’S iGAMING PLATFORM

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 02:25 PM PDT

 

LAS VEGAS, March 18, 2013 — Bally Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BYI), a leader in slots, video machines, casino-management, interactive applications, and networked and server-based systems for the global gaming industry, today announced that Bally products earned two of the four most prestigious awards in the annual "Top 20 Most Innovative Products Awards" contest sponsored by Casino Journal magazine.

Bally Technologies' Senior VP of Technology Bryan Kelly

Challenge Connection™ won the Gold award and the Bally iGaming Platform won the Attendees' Choice award, which was determined by attendees at the Gaming Technology Conference, held last week at Green Valley Ranch Resort & Casino in Henderson, Nev.

Over the past four years, Bally has won more than 50 awards for technology innovation, a testament to the Company's focus on Research & Development and providing customers with the trailblazing solutions that drive return-on-investment, improve operating efficiencies, and excite players.

"We are honored to have industry leaders and the distinguished attendees of the Gaming Technology Conference choose Bally's products for these prominent awards," said Bally Technologies' Senior Vice President of Technology Bryan Kelly. "More importantly, we are excited to be able to provide these trailblazing products to our customers so that they can continue to provide a compelling casino experience for players around the world."

Challenge Connection™ connects select Bally games to a casino's Facebook app, enabling friendly challenges that drive people to the casino floor and provide powerful marketing and promotions opportunities.

Bally's open iGaming Platform is an online gaming portal that enables casino operators to augment their land-based casino gaming with online and mobile play-for-free and wager-based games, selecting best-of-breed content from a multitude of providers – including poker, table games, video slots, bingo, and sports wagering.

Bally integrates its cross-platform business-to-business iGaming solution with core casino patron, slot-management, and business-intelligence systems. This "single view of the player" provides operators with enterprise-wide analytics and the ability to conduct multi-channel promotions and bonusing to patrons on the casino floor, at home, or on the move.

About Bally Technologies, Inc. With a history dating back to 1932, Las Vegas-based Bally Technologies designs, manufactures, operates, and distributes advanced gaming devices, systems and technology solutions worldwide. Bally's product line includes reel-spinning slot machines, video slots, wide-area progressives, interactive and mobile applications, and Class II, lottery, and central-determination games and platforms. Bally also offers an array of casino management, slot accounting, bonusing, cashless and table management solutions. For more information, please contact Laura Olson-Reyes, Senior Director, Marketing & Corporate Communications, at 702-584-7742, or visit http://www.ballytech.com.  Connect with Bally on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

 

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Solaire changes the Manila tourism game

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 12:13 PM PDT

 

 

MANILA, PHILIPPINES,  at 2:28 p.m. on the 16th March, Enrique Razon, Jr. opened the doors to the new Solaire Resort & Casino in

Enrique Razon, Jr, Chairman and CEO of Bloomberry Resort Corp

Entertainment City adjacent Mall of Asia. The flagship project of Bloomberry Resorts Corporation (PSE:  BLOOM) is the first of four anchor properties in Manila's Entertainment City and Casino Life magazine was there to witness this impressive event. With its luxury, resort-style accommodations, distinct dining options and impressive gaming facilities Solaire has changed the way people will view resort casinos in Manila.

"We are extremely excited to share the first phase of Solaire with the people of Manila" said Enrique Razon, Jr, Chairman and CEO of Bloomberry Resort Corp. "We are sure that this will have a great impact on tourism here in Manila."

Solaire Resort Casino Dragon Bar

Solaire’s accommodations are comprised of approximately 500 luxuriously appointed rooms, suites and bay side villas that offer sophistication in a comfortable setting. The Resort Villas range from 600 square meters to 1,000 square meters each, with a majestic view of the Manila Bay sunset. Each villa also includes its own pool, Jacuzzi, and putting green. Two separate arrival and check-in areas pamper guests and showcase the details of world renowned resort and casino designer Paul Steelman's striking interior design, all accentuated by numerous contemporary art pieces by Filipino Artists.

"I think people will be very impressed with the level of attention and detail that went into the construction of Solaire. The overall beauty of the property is an experience all on its own." said Mike French, Solaire's Chief Operating Officer.

Populating the interior beauty of Solaire is an unparalleled gaming experience for those looking to add a little luck to their lives. Solaire has nearly 300 gaming tables featuring Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette and other favorites, as well as 1,200 of the most popular slot machines. As for the VIP treatment, there are no less than 6,000 square meters of premium VIP gaming salons.

To round out a successful day at the tables, Solaire offers eight distinct dining options guaranteed to please any palette. The headliners of this group are Solaire's four signature, fine dining restaurants: Red Lantern, Yakumi, Finestra and Strip. For a more casual atmosphere Lucky Noodles, Fresh buffet and Food Court are offering up delicious dishes from across the globe 24/7. Eclipse and Dragon Bar are serving up cocktails and entertainment to kick start any evening out.

For those looking at the relaxing side of a their stay, Solaire's spa facility, resort style pool and stunning views of the Manila Bay sunsets will provide an experience that will rejuvenate the weariest of guests.

Management service for Solaire is provided by Global Gaming Asset Management ("GGAM"), composed of industry veterans with combined experience of over 100 years of global gaming development and operations. Prior to forming GGAM the three principles, Bill Weidner, Brad Stone and Garry Saunders, held senior positions with Las Vegas Sands Corp (NYSE: LVS). While with Las Vegas Sands Corp. they were directly responsible for the development of such resorts as the Venetian Las Vegas, Palazzo Las Vegas, Sands Macau, the Venetian Macau and Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. GGAM is also an equity partner in Solaire's parent company Bloomberry Resorts Corporation.

All members of Solaire Resort's senior management team are industry veterans with integrated resort experience from markets such as Las Vegas, Macau, and Singapore.

Bloomberry (PSE: BLOOM), meanwhile, is a publicly-traded company listed on the Philippines Stock Exchange and is majority owned by its Chairman and CEO Enrique Razon, Jr. one of the country's most prominent industry leaders, and the driving force behind port operator International Container Terminal Services Inc,("ICTSI") (PSE: ICT), one of the largets companies in the Philippines. For more information on Solaire Resort & Casino, visit www.solairemanila.com

About: Bloomberry Resorts Corporation & Solaire Resort & CasinoBloomberry Resorts Corporation (PSE: BLOOM) is a public company listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange that develops destination resorts featuring premium accommodations, gaming and entertainment, and world-class restaurants and other amenities.

The company's flagship property, Solaire Resort & Casino, is a USD $1.0 Billion integrated destination resort on an 8.3-hectare site in Manila, Philippines and will be the first to open in the government sponsored (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) economic development zone known as Entertainment City.

Solaire's Phase 1 will feature 500 luxurious rooms, suites and bay side villas, 18,500 square meters of gaming space, a host of signature restaurants, bars & lounges, and a multilevel car park.

 

 

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PLACEMENT OF INTERBLOCK’S G4 PRODUCT IN CASINO DE MONTROND TURNS OUT AS ANOTHER GREAT SUCCESS

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 11:21 AM PDT

 

Interblock is proud that another great installation together with one of the top casino operator in France, company JOA Groupe was carried out in Casino de Montrond-les-Baines. G4 Organic Live(tm) Roulette with 07 play stations in silver-black design was placed in the brand new casino and entertainment complex in the area of Lyon.

Mr. Bojan Dreven, Regional Sales Manager at Interblock, commented the installation: “This is now the fourth Interblock installation within the JOA Groupe casino floor, which are placed all over the France. It’s a pleasure to work in such a great partnership and we believe that advantages that they recognize in our gaming products will continue to keep our good relationship in the future.”

G4 Organic Live(tm) is a semi-automated game, offering choice of any traditional game from our selection. Organic Live platform offers players the ability to place wagers electronically on a live wheel operated by a croupier or an Electronic shoe being dealt for a baccarat game. A compact and modern Organic Live Roulette game designed for 6, 7, 9 or 14 players it can be easily integrate into any casino floor.

 

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WMS Industries Inc. Awarded LEED Platinum Certification from U.S. Green Building Council for New Construction

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 11:13 AM PDT

Waukegan & Chicago, Ill, WMS Industries Inc. a leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of games, digital gaming content and gaming machines to the worldwide gaming industry announced today it has received LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USBGC) in recognition for sustainable design in the construction of its new Technology Development Center at the WMS Chicago Technology Campus.

Brian R. Gamache, WMS Chairman & CEO

Brian R. Gamache, WMS Chairman & CEO, said, "Achievement of LEED Platinum certification for our Technology Development Center is a validation of our environmental stewardship, and a tangible example of our commitment to the surrounding community and the health and well-being of our employees."

Reflecting the Chicago River to the east, the five-story building at 2718 Roscoe features a living roof designed to absorb sunlight, improve insulation and reduce energy usage; a rain harvesting system with underground storage; a computer-controlled, advanced building system linking sunlight to automatic window shades and lighting; and a terrace with grasses and flowering plants. The green rooftop complements ground-level improvements that include a riverside courtyard with benches, new trees and plantings, decorative lighting and bicycle racks.

Opened in August 2012, the facility provides creative space for up to 220 game designers, producers, artists and mathematicians, with 37 conference rooms, a 180-seat auditorium with a multi-screen LCD wall providing videoconferencing capabilities with WMS' global locations, two product-testing showrooms and two game laboratories. The expansive lobby features a themed digital mural on a 100' x 7.5' LCD wall and four touch screen kiosks displaying company history, employee recognition, the WMS Hall of Fame and information on building energy usage metrics, local weather and transportation updates. Employees regularly take advantage of four amenity areas: a unique glass-enclosed court for basketball, volleyball and  soccer, a weight and workout room, a 2,000 sq. ft. rooftop indoor/outdoor terrace with freestanding fireplace and conversation areas, and the ground-level Riverview Café with adjacent employee game lounge. The Technology Development Center increases the size of the six-building Chicago Technology Campus by 50 percent to 350,000 sq. ft.

Scott Schweinfurth, Executive Vice President, Treasurer and CFO, said, "The WMS facility team, led by Director of Global Facilities Todd Clark and Senior Principal Manager Bill Thomas, did a terrific job ensuring we created a truly outstanding environment for our innovative game developers. They provided general contractor services to fast track the project and implemented changes in the interior space to accommodate our growing workforce."

Construction for the new facility began in spring 2010 with the removal of a structure at 2704 Roscoe, and a partial in-fill of the existing 3401 N. California building. The construction site presented several challenges, including the removal of two large heating oil underground storage tanks and meditation of other environmental issues. Constructed on approximately 25′ of urban rubble, the cassion installation required the expertise of some of region's finest engineers and contractors.

WMS' commitment to sustainability reaches beyond construction design. For example, the Riverview Café offers menus that champion local family farmers, limit the use of antibiotics in chicken, turkey and pork, and utilize cage-free eggs, along with other Free Trade food products. Additionally, recycling containers are available throughout WMS facilities to ensure that plastic bottles, aluminum, and paper are sorted appropriately, and high performance electric hand dryers are available in restrooms to conserve energy and reduce paper waste.

Gamache added, "Our Technology Development Center is a living demonstration of our culture of innovation and commitment to sustainability. We are very proud our efforts have been certified by the USGBC and that we now join the ranks of the region's highly exclusive LEED Platinum projects."

About WMS WMS serves the gaming industry worldwide by designing, manufacturing and marketing games, video and mechanical reel-spinning gaming machines, video lottery terminals and in gaming operations, which consists of the placement of leased participation gaming machines in legal gaming venues. The Company also develops and markets digital gaming content, products, services and end-to-end solutions that address global online wagering and play-for-fun social, casual and mobile gaming opportunities. WMS also addresses customers’ gaming floor evolution with its WAGE-NET® networked gaming solution, a suite of systems technologies and applications designed to increase customers’ revenue generating capabilities and operational efficiency. More information on WMS can be found at www.wms.com or visit the Company on Facebook®, Twitter® or YouTube®.

About the U.S. Green Building Council The U.S. Green Building Council is a nonprofit membership organization whose vision is a sustainable built environment within a generation. Its membership includes corporations, builders, universities, government agencies, and other nonprofit organizations. Since UGSBC's founding in 1993, the Council has grown to more than 17,000 member companies and organizations, a comprehensive family of LEED® green building rating systems, an expansive educational offering, and a network of 78 local chapters, affiliates, and organizing groups. For more information, visit www.usgbc.org.

 

 

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More than 100,000 Fans Flock to IGT MegaJackpots® Facebook Page

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 11:06 AM PDT

LAS VEGAS – March The fans just keep coming to International Game Technology's (NYSE: IGT) MegaJackpots Facebook page. IGT celebrates an industry milestone this week as more than 100,000 fans have liked its MegaJackpots® Facebook page in just five months.

The MegaJackpots® Facebook page debuted in October 2012 as part of a larger social media campaign. It is a hub for casino jackpot fans seeking news on the latest jackpot wins, the newest MegaJackpots® titles, where to play MegaJackpots® slot games and information on the latest MegaJackpots® contests as well as exclusive offers at Facebook.com/MegaJackpots.

Fans have lots of reasons to celebrate on the Facebook page. Currently, MegaJackpots® fans on Facebook are invited to enter the Play Your Way Giveaway. The contest gives entrants a chance to choose between two vacation packages to either Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa in Rancho Mirage, Calif., or Harrah's New Orleans. The prize package includes airfare, accommodations, entertainment and more for the lucky fans.

IGT's MegaJackpots® Facebook page is dedicated to the countless MegaJackpots® fans from around the globe. IGT launched MegaJackpots® progressive product line in 1986 and has since produced thousands of major winners with jackpots ranging from just over $1 million to the world record slot jackpot of more than $39 million.

MegaJackpots® games are created by IGT, a leader in the design, development and manufacture of gaming machines and systems products in casinos worldwide. More information about IGT is available at www.IGT.com.

IGT Resources:

About IGT International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) is a global leader in casino gaming entertainment and continues to transform the industry by translating casino player experiences to social, mobile and interactive environments for regulated markets around the world. IGT’s acquisition of DoubleDown Interactive provides engaging social casino style entertainment to more than 6 million players monthly. More information about IGT is available at IGT.com or connect with IGT at @IGTNews or facebook.com/IGT. Anyone can play at the DoubleDown Casino by visiting http://apps.facebook.com/doubledowncasino or doubledowncasino.com.

 

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Great feedback at Irish show for DRGT

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 10:58 AM PDT

Operators in Ireland had the ideal opportunity at this year's Irish Gaming Show that took place between 5th and 6th March in Dublin to see how their current slots can be made future-proof. The need for connecting the slots is rising and DRGT is ideally placed to support this market.

Together with DRGT's local partner – FunFair Casino – DRGT exhibited its latest solutions. The discussion on the potential introduction of the Gaming Control Bill has advanced the requirement to network slot machines. Nevertheless, operators often wish to maintain their current slots. The Franco reel slots remain extremely popular and operators are looking on how to update these.

DRGT can connect all slots – which is of real importance to Irish operators. The answer to update older reel-based slots is the combination of several dr products together with drScreen. The upper printed glass can be replace with a touch screen monitor that then emulates the glass. This (drReelScreen) then allows players to make full use of drScreen – that all the accounting details can be displayed on this screen. Furthermore, it can be used for direct communication via the individual player – such as targeted advertising, promotions or information on events, bars, restaurants, etc. Thus, the essential, individual player-oriented information the operator wishes to convey to the individual player has become reality. Ticket-in, ticket-out (drTicket) is a reality even on such machines with the introduction of an MEI bank note reader and FutureLogic GEN2 printer (the latter being then placed at the side of the slot machine – thanks to drSideBox).

The Casino Automatic Redemption Machine – drCarm – was also on proud display on the stand. This offers comprehensive bill and ticket conversion and furthermore acts as a bill breaker. The additional in-built security makes the drCARM a true compliment to DRGT systems in larger arcades / casinos.

FunFair Casino is managed by the two brothers Stephen and Philip O´Leary who together underlined the innovation DRGT is bringing to the Irish gaming market: "DRGT is a perfect fit for systems here. The modular, flexible approach allows operators to choose exactly what they need – from accounting right up to jackpot systems. The fact that we can update all the machines in the market – in particular the Franco reel-based ones – makes DRGT stand out with such unique selling points".

Mr. Joost van Egeraat, Sales Director at DRGT, added, "The Irish gaming market is a perfect example of how we work. We tailor our systems to exactly what our customers need. Furthermore, as it is modular, it can be expanded upon at any time. Thus, operators know today that they are investing in future-proof systems solutions with DRGT".

 

 

 

 

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AMATIC INDUSTRIES LEADING THE WAY IN IRELAND

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 10:44 AM PDT

The Irish Gaming Show that took place in Dublin between 5th and 6th March was the perfect setting for AMATIC Industries to launch the slant top Performer Grand Arc to the Irish market. After such a successful ICE show, Irish operators are very pleased to now have the opportunity to offer their players this uniquely curved and attractive gaming machine.

Hans Bierrum of Genesis Games and Thomas Engstberger of AMATIC Industries

Genesis Games Ltd is the long-standing partner for AMATIC Industries in the UK and Ireland. Mr. Hans Bierrum and his team welcomed visitors keen on learning more on the Performer series from AMATIC Industries.

The upright Performer C22 gaming machine was once again on proud display. This dual-monitored ergonomic gaming machine is now firmly established in the Irish market. The AMATIC games consistently top the performance list. It is thus only fitting that the corresponding AMATIC cabinet is called the Performer.

The electronic roulette Grand Jeu from AMATIC Industries is the number one choice for many operators in Ireland. The strong market share continues as operators look to update their arcades with the modern, elegant Grand Jeu 22WS.

Mr. Thomas Engstberger, Sales Manager at AMATIC Industries, confirms the AMATIC popularity in Ireland, stating, "Alongside our popular feature-rich games, our fruit-based games are being played more and more. We are dedicated to offer the Irish market our latest technology and introducing the Performer Grand Arc cabinet here shortly after its international premiere in London at the ICE underlines our commitment. This was a very good show for us to display our latest innovations".

 

 

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AROOGA LAUNCHES CAMELOT – KING ARTHUR’S QUEST ON FACEBOOK

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 10:39 AM PDT

 

Portsmouth, UK, Tuesday 12th March 2013 –Social game makers Arooga are calling on brave knights to join them on an epic quest for the release of their latest slots game on Facebook, Camelot – King Arthur's Quest.

Camelot – King Arthur's Quest is a 25 line game, which boasts up to x15 multiplier for huge wins as well as a free spins feature game entitled Grail Quest, and an Excalibur Wild feature allowing players to re-spin to win.

Inspired by the mythical world of ancient Britain's most famous warrior king and the much-loved characters in his colourful court, Camelot – King Arthur's Quest boasts rich game graphics and original music designed by the company's in-house development team in Portsmouth, UK.

Arooga gave slots fans a taste of their new game by releasing storyboards and game concept art created by their team of designers on their website www.arooga.com and previewed the game's rich animation on YouTube.

CEO Karl Jeffery is confident they'll take to the real thing now it's been released. He said: "We're really excited about Camelot – King Arthur's Quest and think players will be too."

"The graphics and the sound are first-class and the game's features are bound to have slots players coming back again and again. Not only that, they can share their experience with friends."

In line with Arooga's desire to put the social back into social gaming, Camelot – King Arthur's Quest and the firm's other games Midnight and Lovecats will now come with a new 'collections' feature. Fans playing any of the machines will have the chance to gather objects that belong to a set of 12 collectible items specific to that machine. As well as collecting, they can trade these items with friends playing the games to earn extra in-game coins.

Other new social features available on Arooga Slots are progressive jackpots, tokens that can trigger free spins, and the ability to send free spins to friends. In addition, players can also share their big wins using their Facebook wall. The first friend to click on the wall post wins the same amount of coins, with subsequent friends earning a share of the spoils too.

Further information:

Play Arooga Slots on Facebook: http://apps.facebook.com/aroogaslots

Download Camelot – King Arthur's Quest media pack: http://ow.ly/iKjs0

Arooga on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/AroogaGames

Arooga on Facebook: http://www.fb.com/AroogaGames

About Arooga: Arooga is an innovative e-gaming company delivering the next generation of social and mobile gambling games for mobile, social and console platforms. Arooga's game are designed to be enjoyed by millions and distributed globally.

 

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Nottingham entertainment venue does the Harlem Shake

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 10:30 AM PDT

The East Midlands' leading entertainment venue has created its own version of the latest dance craze that is sweeping the globe via internet social networks.

Staff from Alea on Upper Parliament Street in Nottingham donned an assortment of fancy dress items including a Queen of Hearts, Elvis outfit, cheerleader with pom poms and Sponge Bob to film their own take of the Harlem Shake!

Even Barack Obama, Robin Hood and The Sheriff Nottingham put in an appearance on the footage which has already attracted thousands of views.

Available to see on You Tube the video starts with a loan, anonymous dancer wearing a horse's head, strutting his stuff in the middle of the venue while people around him carry on their normal business.

But soon after the craziness begins with the video cutting to the entire crowd of people performing their own incontrollable dance routine dressed in an assortment of outfits and costumes.

Mark Hands, venue director at Alea said: "Our main objective at Alea is for all our customers to have fun and that is exactly what we had making the video. We hope people out there enjoy the clip but I'm not saying who's wearing what in the video."

To see the video go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpbPqyJ0pdk

 

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Dusk Till Dawn Charity Month to Save Emmanuel House

Posted: 18 Mar 2013 10:20 AM PDT

It's Poker Prizes Galore as Dusk Till Dawn join forces with the biggest names in the biz, to bring a full month of poker for a good cause, with over £20K worth of prizes!

This April, players have the chance to win some incredible prizes donated by Paddy Power, PokerStars UKIPT, PokerStars EPT, WPT, 888Poker, SkyPoker, APAT, GUKPT, Genting Casinos, Hippodrome, Aspers & Mint Casino, Rake the Rake and Main Event Travel.

Amongst the fundraising activities are…

April 1st – Online tournament with a trip to the EPT Monte Carlo as the headline prize.

21st April – Live tournament (during the DTD Monte Carlo event) with a £20,000 guaranteed prize pool plus added prizes such as a package for the 888Poker Moroccan Magic and a seat into the GUKPT final, followed by a silent auction.

22nd April – Charity Party at DTD Nottingham

5th May – Raffle Draw for ten fabulous prizes including a Paddy Power Irish Open main event seat, an EPT and UKIPT package and a GUKPT seat – tickets are just £5!

For full details on all the fundraising events or to purchase raffle and party tickets Click Here >

 

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